Earlier this year, 10 North East library authorities teamed up with local artists and community groups on the ‘Bringing Shakespeare to Life’ project, with each group working on a different one of the famous writer’s plays.
As part of the Arts Council-funded project, members of Wallsend-based group Action for Blind People worked with local artist Tom Embleton to produce a visual art banner representing their thoughts and ideas about the play, Othello.
One of the participants, Malcolm Busby, said: “At first I was unsure about taking part as I’d never attempted anything like this before.
“But I must give a special mention to Tom because he brought out the best in everybody and made you at ease. I thought he was very good, I can’t praise him enough. He made something that at first seemed quite difficult very easy.
“The confidence that taking part in the project has given me is one of the biggest factors. When I lost my sight in 2012 I had to give up work and so that was a big thing missing from my life. I was just so pleased with the banner we created; it gave me a real boost.
“I told all my family and friends about it and one of my dearest friends recently bought me an art set because she knew how happy I’d been working on the Shakespeare project.”
The group’s work will go on display in Wallsend Customer First Centre from Monday, 26 September and will be up until Saturday, October 8.
Action for Blind People offers help, support and information to anyone who may be struggling with sight loss.
For further information, call (0191) 349 9550.